Whiteport

French and fabulous

2012-01-18T16:14:00.001-08:00

What is it about French decor that is so appealing? Is it because it stands the test of time? Just look at the chaise lounge, dating back to the 18th century yet still popular today. No other decorating style has the same appeal and versatility. You can combine French dining chairs with an 18th-century Spanish table and it looks fantastic. Add two French armchairs opposite a modern sofa to create an informal and cosy seating area. Or maybe it's just the pure aesthetic appeal of French pieces.

Whatever the reason, we love anything French and at Whiteport, we've got a growing collection of French style pieces - from vintage French butterfly art, Louis XV dining chairs to French linen curtains (above).

Timeless and elegant, yet comfortable enough to embrace any modern family. Come and see why French style endures.

Own a Chesterfield for less with FREE shipping

2012-01-16T10:00:00.000-08:00

Our favourite Chesterfield sofas are back in stock & for 3 days only, we're offering FREE shipping on every Chesterfield. Choose from 3 classic colours, all with sheltering arms & deeply tufted upholstery. The Chesterfield sofa has been synonymous with comfort for hundreds of years. Fabric samples available upon request. Offer ends Thursday 19 January 2012 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Order this week for 20% off & pre-Christmas delivery

2011-12-05T20:29:00.000-08:00

Leave it to us not Santa. Order this week for guaranteed delivery before Christmas. You can enjoy 20% off storewide until Friday. Just quote WHITE11 at checkout.*

And ...

Our favourite Chesterfield sofas are back in stock. Now available in 3 stylish colours, as featured in Home Beautiful magazine (above). Order this week for pre-Christmas delivery. And if you haven't visited Whiteport lately, be sure to check out our New Arrivals.

* Coupon must be quoted at time of purchase. Valid for new orders only placed between 6-9/12/2011. Discount applied before any shipping charges are added. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Free shipping storewide for 2 days

2011-11-29T20:30:00.000-08:00

Until Friday, we're offering FREE shipping on all orders. See our new range of table lamps, miniature Dragonfly art (above), 100% silk pillowcases and removable wall decals. All shipped free. Just quote coupon NOSHIP at checkout.

And be sure to check out our New Arrivals.

2 days, 2 great online deals

2011-10-31T16:46:00.001-07:00

Until midnight Wednesday, enjoy 15% off your order total plus FREE shipping. No exceptions and applies to all of our New Arrivals.

Choose from beautiful bedding, table linens and furniture. Just quote coupon 'FIFTEEN' at checkout for 15% off + FREE shipping.

Shop now >>

New items instore now

2011-10-26T14:59:00.001-07:00

In case you haven't had time to visit our store lately, we thought we'd let you know about some exciting New Arrivals.

You can't beat our new Boston bed linen, available in sheet sets with matching duvet covers. Made to commercial standards, they're guaranteed to last. With classic ladderstitch design, they are made from the softest cotton percale.

And don't forget to check out our new range of knitted linen bed runners. A great way to give your bed a new look. Made in Europe from 100% linen. Matching cushions also available. Très chic !

As always, everything is white or neutral so they suit all colour palettes. Or if you want an injection of colour, just add some contrasting cushions or perhaps a throw.

We look forward to welcoming you to Whiteport again soon.

Spring clean & save with 20% off everything Bedroom

2011-09-22T07:35:00.000-07:00

Spring represents new beginnings, a fresh start so it's the perfect time to refresh your bedroom. Create a space you love to be in. For 3 days, we're taking 20% off our entire Bedroom collection. Includes all new bedding lines, cushions, throws, sheets, quilts and bedroom furniture.

Enter coupon code "BED" at checkout. Hurry, sale ends midnight Saturday 24 September.

Shop now.

Spring is here and so are our Bleu coral cushions

2011-09-12T15:06:00.000-07:00

With Spring officially here, now is the perfect time to change your accent pieces throughout your home. Nothing does this as effectively yet inexpensively as new cushions. By simply changing the cushions and throws on your bed or sofa, you can change the whole feel of the room. That's why at Whiteport, we're all about neutrals in our furniture pieces. Afterall, an all white colour scheme is not for everyone, so using your colours and contrasts in your accent pieces can still bring in the desired shots of colour and impact.

Our new Bleu coral cushions are a pretty yet vibrant blue that looks great teamed with white and taupe. They are beautifully finished with little details you're sure to love. Instore now and ready for shipping.

New Values decorator canvases instore

2011-08-19T11:02:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out our new Values decorator canvases just arrived instore and ready for shipping. A variation on the traditional bus scroll, they're designed with words of wisdom and inspiration, guaranteed to brighten your day. Use them in any room in your home. Available in two designs in either warm grey or black & white. Two sizes available. We're sure you'll agree they make the perfect gift idea or why not treat yourself?

End of lines clearance continues instore

2011-06-13T19:42:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to visit our Clearance section for lots of end of lines bargains. Prices reduced by as much as 60%. We need to make room for new stock so everything must go. Prices start from $4.95. Hurry, odd numbers left.

Haven't been instore for a while? Check out our New Arrivals all instore now and ready for immediate shipping.

Storewide savings ends Friday

2011-06-01T19:20:00.000-07:00

This week we're reducing the price on everything by 20%. That's right, no exceptions and if it's already reduced, you get an additional 20% off the reduced price. Prices start from just $4.95 in our Clearance section. Enter coupon code "FRIDAY" at checkout. Hurry, sale ends Friday.

Treat yourself to our best sellers at 15% off

2011-05-19T21:55:00.000-07:00

Until Sunday, we're reducing the price on everything in our Favourites section. The combination of timeless style, brilliant quality & outstanding value for money means these Whiteport favourites are still top of our must-have list, season after season. And all 15% off. If it's already reduced, you get an additional 15% off. Enter coupon code "FAV" at checkout.

Free upgrade on Quissett cotton quilts

2011-05-01T20:09:00.000-07:00

This month, you can upgrade to a Super King size Quissett quilt for price of a Queen. Made from 100% cotton, our Quissett quilts are perfect to use all year round. Use them as a bedspread or folded along the foot of your bed. Comes with pair of matching pillowcases. A great quality quilt at a great price. Why not buy one for Mum?

Available in either classic white or cream/ivory. Pretty quilted design. Super king size measures 265 x 285cm. Normally $239.95, now $179.95. Hurry, only on Sale this month.

Très chic for less

2011-04-11T22:50:00.000-07:00

We've got our hands on a select range of gorgeous French style furniture at fantastic prices for ONE WEEK ONLY. Savings range from $105 - $500 per item. Limited stocks available so shop now to avoid disappointment. Orders must be placed by Friday 15 April. No coupon code required, so tell a friend !

Click here to view specials.

Furnish for less. 48 hour furniture sale.

2011-03-07T17:53:00.000-08:00

Until Thursday, we're reducing the price of our Top 4 bestselling furniture pieces. Includes Avignon linen armchair, matching linen ottoman, Avignon linen dining chairs and our Cape Cod chair & ottoman. All 25% off. Sale ends midday (EST) Thursday 10 March. Enter coupon 'FURNISH' at checkout.

And don't forget to check out our Clearance category for big reductions on end of line items. Odd numbers left.

* Discount valid for new orders placed between 8-10/3/11. Coupon must be quoted at time of purchase. Freight cost additional.

The white thing

2011-02-14T21:11:00.000-08:00

We've shared with you on many occasions the benefits of decorating with white, but it seems to go unnoticed just how much of a part of our lives white already is. Whether it be the paint you buy to update your bedroom, your first baby shoes, wedding favour cupcakes or even the eggs you cook for your breakfast. White is all around.

One of our favourite books, The White Home by the gifted Caroline Clifton-Mogg, explores how white is so much more than just a canvas for beautiful objects we choose to fill our homes. It is in itself, eternally satisfying. What is it about layers of crisp white linen or a row of gleaming white china cups on a shelf that is so universally appealing, she asks? Here we shares some practical tips from Caroline's book.

Table settings - An all white mismatched set works best if there is strong contrast between shapes. On any all-white table, flowers and other decorative objects come into their own.

Bedrooms - A white bedroom is the ultimate answer in the elusive, constant quest for peace and quiet. Contrast edging on white linen always make the white look whiter.

Clean kitchens - White has long been associated with total cleanliness and hygiene which makes it ideal to use in the kitchen. Whether your kitchen space is minimal or expansive, having all-white everything is a way of making the most of what there is.

Furniture - Contemporary furniture stands out best in a white room, where the cleanly defined lines and contrasting materials are seen at their best.

We highly recommend her book for ideas and inspiration for decorating with white. Already a fan? Tell us which bits you found most useful.

Decorating the white way

2011-02-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

The team at Whiteport are huge fans of Rachel Ashwell, founder of the Shabby Chic brand with stores in Santa Monica, New York and London. Comfort, the beauty of imperfections, the allure of time-worn objects, and the appeal of simple practical living are the cornerstones of the Shabby Chic brand.

Rachel's take on white decor? Pretty, but far from precious. Think rumpled linens and chipped paint gussied up by crystal chandeliers and fresh flowers. "My motto is 'beauty and comfort,'" Ashwell says. "If you can embrace the lived-in look, white is very practical."

Here are some other tips from Rachel on living with white:

White is never boring. Beige can be boring, but not white. It's a very dramatic color.

White can be cozy. People think of it as cold, because they believe a white room must be neat and uniform with chairs lined up like good little soldiers. I avoid hard, modern pieces and use fluffy cushions and distressed finishes — so you still get that airy feeling, but with warmth to it.

White makes for a flexible and forgiving first step. Paint a room white, and you have a blank canvas for anything.

Finally, white has the power to unify disjointed spaces. White on the walls and underfoot harmonizes the space and establishes continuity from one room to another.

(Images courtesy of Shabby Chic & linked to source)

Living with white

2011-01-24T17:47:00.000-08:00

At Whiteport, we're always being asked for advice on how to live with white. There seems to be a popular misconception that white is impractical to live with and is only for homes without children. If this was true, then surely white would not be the most universally favoured paint colour. From furniture to walls to cupboards, it is the one colour that truly works on all fronts.

Dulux have published their winning colours. Is it any coincidence that the top 2 most popular colours in Australia are white? No. 1 is Antique White USA and No. 2 is Whisper White. Ralph Lauren has over 60 shades of white in their paint range and the largest paint manufacturer in the US, Benjamin Moore, offers over 200 shades of white.

All this says that decorating with white is not to be feared. It's versatile, timeless and never boring. That's proven over and over again by weddings — we never tire of looking at them.

If you'd like to share your decorating success stories (or otherwise!), we'd love to hear from you.

Sleep better with 20% off all bed linen

2011-01-16T18:04:00.000-08:00

Nothing beats the feel of fresh new bedding. Climbing into crisp new sheets is a sure way to guarantee blissful slumber. For 2 days, enjoy 20% off our entire range of bed linen. Choose from scented Italian sheets, Bamboo bedspreads, Cotton jersey sheet sets and quilted bedspreads, to name a few. Sale ends midnight (EST) Wednesday 19 January. Enter coupon 'BED' at checkout.

We've also been busy finding new items to bring you for 2011. Be sure to check out our new arrivals
instore now.

* Discount valid for new orders placed between 17-19/1/11.

Bright white sale on now

2011-01-05T16:47:00.000-08:00

Brighten up your new year and enjoy 20% off storewide until Thursday (midnight). Enter coupon 'BRIGHT' at checkout. Valid for online orders only, no exclusions. Shop now for immediate despatch*.

New look for the new year

The new year is always a great time to redecorate your home. Small steps is the key to affordable decorating that works. Start with a key piece first, like new bed linen in your bedroom or new art for your living room and then add to it.

* Immediate despatch excludes butterfly art and vintage bus scrolls which are made to order. Discount valid for new orders placed between 4-6/1/11.

White at home

2010-11-17T16:49:00.000-08:00

At Whiteport, we're all about living with white and creating spaces you love to live in. From time to time, we come across inspiring shots that are good examples of how to live with white. Our latest collection show how white can be used either as the main decorating colour, or in a complementary way.

Our vintage bus scrolls are gorgeous on their own, but put them on a white wall, and the words jump out at you, making them a truly striking decorator piece. Living with white is more practical than most people think. Of course some thought needs to be given to furnishings and the family members you are catering for, (use washable seat covers and wash & wear paint if you have little ones), but you can still create a calming and contemporary space based on white.

So when you're next thinking of decorating, or even just changing your bed linen now summer is here, spare a thought for white and how it could work in your home. Always in style, white is a must have in any well dressed home. Have any decorating tips you'd like to share? Post us a comment. We'd love to hear from you.

2 days to save 20% storewide

2010-11-10T14:37:00.000-08:00

Hurry into Whiteport before Friday and save 20% off everything. We're making way for new stock so lots of items already reduced in our Clearance section. Had your eye on that chair or lovely new quilt for your bed? Now's the time to buy it with 20% off. Simply enter coupon 'SAVE' at checkout.

And if you really want to treat yourself, check out our new Italian dragonfly sheets. Luxuriously soft and embroidered with white on white dragonflies. They are even impregnated with white musk scent to make your bedroom smell divine. Ah, pure bliss ...

New instore at Whiteport

2010-11-04T19:46:00.000-07:00

Visit Whiteport and see what's new. Just arrived, our new jersey cotton sheet sets, pictured above, are sure to please. If these aren't the nicest sheets you've slept under, we'll give you your money back. We're that confident you'll love them! Made from the softest jersey cotton and finished with aloe vera, getting into bed is now pure bliss. Add a soft throw and some cushions and your bedroom makeover is complete.

Beautiful butterflies

2010-10-25T20:48:00.000-07:00

This week we decided to feature our new butterfly art. Worthy of a post all to themselves, we're sure you'll agree they are simply gorgeous. Both the whisper white and vintage designs are proudly made here in Australia.

Framed in a simple white frame, they are ready to hang or stand. They make a beautiful addition to a bedroom surrounded by soft cushions and throws. With butterflies symbolising new beginnings, they make an ideal wedding or christening gift.

See them instore now at Whiteport.

Take 20% off storewide until Friday

2010-10-13T14:08:00.000-07:00

Until midnight Friday, enjoy 20% off storewide. Get an early start on your Christmas shopping and take advantage of our sale.

Enter coupon 'save' at checkout. Valid for online orders only. Click here to start shopping.

Family or friends overseas?

Let Whiteport take the stress out of your Christmas shopping. We ship Australia-wide as well as internationally so if you've got family and friends overseas, we can take care of their presents too. No more waiting in long queues at the post office for you !

Clearance sale now on

2010-10-05T18:35:00.000-07:00

With Christmas fast approaching, our end of lines sale is a great way to buy those stocking fillers. Avoid the stress of last minute purchases by ordering now. Prices start from just $3.95. Over 30 items reduced to clear.

Hurry, on sale until sold out, limited numbers available for some items. As our poster (above) says, keep calm and carry on is the mantra for the upcoming silly season.

See all Sale items here.

Save with FREE delivery until Thursday

2010-09-27T20:06:00.000-07:00

Hurry into Whiteport before Thursday and enjoy FREE delivery on all orders. Delivery must be to an Australian address and is valid for online orders placed between 28/9-30/9/10. Enter coupon 'ship' at checkout.

Offer is valid storewide, including our New Arrivals and Furniture range.

15% off + FREE delivery until tomorrow

2010-09-13T19:44:00.001-07:00

Don't miss your chance to save 15% storewide + FREE delivery*. With the warmer weather here, now's the time to update your bedroom with some fresh new bedding, bedroom furniture or accessories. Be sure to visit our Sale category, also 15% off.

Enter coupon 'white' at checkout. Valid for online orders only. Sale ends midnight Wednesday 15 September.

* Free delivery only applies to Australian delivery addresses.

Spring is the time for weddings

2010-09-12T22:40:00.000-07:00

This month we're proud to be featured in our favourite wedding magazine, Wedding Style Guide. Our Sagamore tablecloth provides the backdrop to a colourful and edible sugary display for those young wedding guests. Kids are often overlooked at weddings, so take the time to cater for them and ensure everybody enjoys themselves on your special day.

White & weddings

2010-09-08T19:06:00.000-07:00

No colour is more closely associated with weddings and brides than white. White lends itself perfectly to weddings be it the dress, shoes, flowers or table linen. White conveys purity, elegance and innocence. It can be teamed with almost any other colour, so its versatility is endless making it the colour of choice for most wedding planners.

Here we thought we'd share with you a small selection of some of our favourite wedding images. Some items are available from us at Whiteport and the rest* is mere inspiration, so beautiful we couldn't resist sharing them. We hope you enjoy.

* images courtesy of www.freeimages.co.uk

2 days to save 20% storewide

2010-08-30T18:46:00.000-07:00

Until midnight Wednesday, enjoy 20% off storewide at Whiteport. Get ready for Spring with fresh new bed linen, some new table linen or perhaps a chair for your bedroom. Enter coupon 'white' at checkout.

You spend a third of your lifetime sleeping so make sure you're comfortable! Any well dressed bed needs good quality bed linen, a textured throw & lots of plump, co-ordinated cushions to fall into. Buy now and save 20%.

Happy shopping.

Own a piece of history

2010-08-25T19:20:00.000-07:00

Now's your chance to own a unique piece of American history. Whiteport founder, Jennifer McCabe, is selling this original American Union Jack flag, recently featured in Real Living magazine.

An original maritime flag representing the USA, it was flown on the in the bow of US Navy vessels. This particular flag with 48 stars was used during July 4, 1912 and July 3, 1959, in both World War I and World War II. The stars represent each state admitted into the union.

Beautifully framed under glass and cream antiqued timber frame it measures H: 139 x W: 100cm. It makes a stunning display piece and with it's remarkable history, a great talking point.

Click here to view item on eBay.

15% off + FREE delivery until Thursday

2010-08-17T19:43:00.000-07:00

Hurry in for great savings storewide. Until midnight Thursday, Whiteport subscribers can enjoy 15% off + FREE shipping. Now's a great time to update your bedroom with some fresh new bed linen, a new cushion or throw. And don't forget to check out our new arrivals if you're in need of some inspiration.

Enter coupon 'ship' at checkout to receive discount. Free delivery not valid on Hamptons library, Avignon or Cape Cod furniture.

Happy shopping !

New designer wall art instore

2010-08-12T20:41:00.001-07:00

We're really excited about our new fab wall art instore this month at Whiteport. Already featured in several leading international home design magazines, our wall decals are a fast and easy way to create your own personalised wall art.

Application kit and instructions included. They are easy to use and produce fantastic results. Stickers are removable and best suited for use on painted walls, wallpaper, counter tops, windows, mirrors and tiles.

2 days to save 20% storewide

2010-08-04T21:37:00.000-07:00

Until midnight Friday, enjoy 20% off storewide. Applies to all new arrivals, including furniture. Enter coupon 'save' at checkout. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer excludes Hamptons library only. Share the love and tell a friend.

New look Vintage bus scrolls instore now

2010-08-03T21:29:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out our new look vintage bus scrolls. Inspired by the former cloth destination blinds of the 1950's, our stunning vintage bus scrolls make a truly striking statement. Only premium quality materials are used including unbleached 100% cotton canvas. Proudly 100% Australian made. Ready for hanging or simply lean them up against a wall. They're sure to become a talking point. Choose from traditional black background with white writing OR beige background with white writing for a more contemporary look.

New lower price now includes delivery anywhere in Australia.

Avignon linen furniture back in stock

2010-06-27T19:58:00.000-07:00

At last our gorgeous Avignon linen furniture collection is back in stock. Arriving next week and ready for shipment all around Australia. Hurry in before we sell out again!

A comfortable and stylish range modelled on the famous Louis XV period. Choose from 3 seater sofa, armchair and matching ottoman.

3 day stocktake sale - starts tomorrow

2010-06-20T18:52:00.000-07:00

Our annual stocktake sale is on again. From tomorrow, we're taking 20% off storewide. What better time to give your bedroom a facelift with some fresh new bedding. Or how about some new napery for your dining table. It's all ON SALE. Tell a friend so they can save too.

Enter coupon 'home' at checkout to receive your discount. Sale is for 3 days only and ends midnight (EST) Thursday 24 June. Some larger furniture exclusions apply.

Pulling a room together - expert tips

2010-05-31T20:53:00.000-07:00

Continuing our Foolproof Decorating series, interior decorator Claire Jackson of Haven Interiors shares with Whiteport how she works with clients to ensure the pieces they purchase will all come together successfully.

Wherever possible, it is very important to include a clients’ personal touches & belongings into a new space to create a sense of personality and belonging. I usual provide a folio of initial ideas to the client to help them visualize the end result. Again, working with suppliers and stockists that you have built a rapport with allows you the luxury of often taking items home ‘on appro’ which is a wonderful service, where no money is spent unnecessarily, and can save financial stress later.

As a project progresses, whether it involve new furnishings, colour schemes, lighting and or simply ‘adding touches’, being able to try the pieces in the client’s home to see if they look and feel right, and usually with the client present, will show us how it is all coming together. If I’m working with more established clients who know my style as I do his/her taste, they trust me to make the right decisions for them and bring it all together. I no longer get involved with building and actually design work as I did some years ago. I specialize in furnishings, colour, lighting, bedlinen, fabrics and homewares, and so for me it is easier to bring a look together when the background and/or structural details are already confirmed or finished.

I had a lovely client last year who had known me for several years, so was familiar with my style. As she is elderly, at times she finds shopping stressful, and so was very happy for me to do the ‘shopping’ for her, and then bring things to her home to create the look. This was based upon the story board and concept proposal I had already given her from our initial meetings. At a subsequent meeting, I took a specific range of fabric samples, a couple of chairs and some art work - all ‘on appro’. Within 2 visits, we had confirmed exactly what the look would be. Furnishings being kept were paid for (a few had to be ordered in), items not right were returned, and all orders for indent furnishings were made, with approximate delivery dates given. She was happy, there was no stress, and she knew exactly what the costs would involve.

Sometimes it is appropriate for clients to go shopping with me as it helps them visualize the desired outcome. Sometimes clients have no specific thought as to what they want and simply don’t know what they like, nor are they confident to make such decisions, so by me being decisive and trusting my experience, this takes that worry away for them. Others are very specific and know exactly what they want. In both situations, again I work with my favourite stores and suppliers. Depending on the specific agenda, I might book in a meeting with the supplier/stockist so that we can show them exactly what pieces I am recommending for the space, and show how it will ‘come together’.

With a colleague Claire launched a new business, designersecrets, last year. They run design and decorating workshops for women who are passionate about their home and are interested in how to create their ideal home interior. For more information, email Claire at: haven.interiors@bigpond.com. All images courtesy of Haven Interiors.

2 days, 2 online deals : 15% off + FREE shipping

2010-04-27T17:25:00.000-07:00

Hurry into Whiteport. For 2 days, we're taking 15% off and offering FREE shipping. We've got lots of new items instore, with something for everyone. It's not too late to pick up something for Mum with Mother's Day just around the corner. We've got lots of great gift ideas for her.

Enter coupon 'save' at checkout to receive discount. Valid for online orders only. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Click here to start shopping.

White hot press

2010-04-14T23:40:00.000-07:00

This month, we're proud to be featured in Real Living magazine. The home of Whiteport founder, Jennifer McCabe, is the feature of the story, about living with white. The story references Jennifer and husband Lee's renovating journey on their 1918 beach house on Sydney's northern beaches. With its whitewashed floors, high-beamed ceilings and timber panelling, the house lends itself perfectly to Whiteport's style.

We love this kitchen shot showing the inspiration for Whiteport's vintage bus scrolls. This one is an original London bus scroll bought on eBay, but Whiteport now sells similar. Each one is screen printed by hand and proudly designed & made here in Australia.

The house has lots of interesting nooks which Jennifer and Lee have filled with pieces collected from their time living abroad along with some Whiteport pieces of course. They also love scouring markets and second hand stores for interesting pieces. eBay is also a favourite, like this chair pictured above bought for $65 which Jennifer had recovered in red & white check fabric. The leather ottomon also shown was a Whiteport sample and something we may see at Whiteport soon.

The guest bedroom, pictured above, has a lovely calming feel and again showcases some more Whiteport goodies. The bedside table is their Hampton's butlers tray and the quilted bedspread is from their Quissett quilt range. The bedhead and toy box at the foot of the bed were both bought from eBay and reupholstered. We love the way the colours stand out against the predominantly white background.

All images courtesy of Real Living magazine.

Bedroom bliss : Hot press

2010-04-05T20:36:00.000-07:00

This month, we're proud to have our Scargo hot water bottles featured in Australian Homespun magazine. Made in Austria by the famous David Fussenegger, they can hold up to 2 litres of water, keeping you snug and warm as winter approaches. Cover is removable and machine washable. An essential bed mate this winter.

Clever table linens

2010-03-24T08:38:00.000-07:00

This month we're proud to be featured in Wedding Style Guide magazine. Our always popular Sagamore table linens have been given the royal treatment for a vintage wedding table setting. It just goes to show how a little thought and creativity can make all the difference, without breaking the bank.

Our white linen/cotton Sagamore napkins have been cleverly screen printed with individual and unique images. You can easily imagine how much less interesting this table setting would be using just ordinary plain white napkins. Plus these wedding guests get a truly unique memento of the day, simply too good to leave behind.

You don't have to wait to get married to use this idea. Create a talking point at your next BBQ or dinner party with friends. Such a unique idea they're sure to get noticed and envied. Wedding Style Guide magazine even have a free template for you to use or you can try copyright-free clip art for ideas. Search Google for screen printers in your local area and you're done.

We're so proud of our Sagamore napkins and their transformation, we're thinking we may steal this idea for ourselves and make them a regular on the Whiteport website !

2 days, 2 online deals

2010-03-14T15:21:00.000-07:00

For today and tomorrow only, we're taking 15% off storewide* AND offering free shipping. Includes new arrivals and already reduced sale items.

Enter coupon code 'two' at checkout to receive discount. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Ends midnight (EST) Tuesday 16 March.

*Sale excludes Avignon furniture and Vintage bus scrolls.

How to style your home like the experts

2010-03-10T21:26:00.000-08:00

The second in our Foolproof Decorating series focuses on how to replicate the look you see in the glossy home magazines. No idea where to start? No problem. This week we've enlisted the help of a professional. Claire Jackson of Haven Interiors is an interior decorator & stylist. Read on to find out her tips & tricks for successful decorating.

If a room appeals to you enough to want to replicate it in your own home, then the chances are that you have a similar style and appreciation as featured. Pick out favourite things from your own interior that can work as feature pieces or focal points in the space.

Although much loved furniture can have great sentimental value, if it isn’t part of the makeover, it doesn’t mean it has to stay in the room. Perhaps use it elsewhere in the house or put it into home storage. Take out everything that you don’t use or no longer need, it only detracts from the aesthetic you are trying to create and creates unnecessary clutter.

Remember, quality not quantity. If you know what you want, but can’t afford to do it all at once, have a plan and stick to it. Invest your money in key pieces, such as a well made sofa and flooring or lighting. Quality workmanship and fabrics will last for many years and are a wise investment.

Cushions and throws are fabulous accessories, and can be interchanged seasonally. They can change the look and feel of a room by way of introducing new textures and colours changing it from the cooler seasons to the warmth of Spring and Summer. For winter I have a divine ‘Nina Campbell’ ruby red check throw with ‘Jane Churchill’ red check cushions that I mix and match on my linen sofa and jumbo cord oatmeal armchair. When the warmer months arrive, I store them away and bring out the citrine linen cushions I had made with Designers Guild Linen (not a lot of fabric required but a staple for my interior), and a soft lime green velvet throw I had made some years ago (DG velvet, inexpensive to have made), finished off with a blanket stitch detail.

If your look is natural timber but your dining table is French polished (and means nothing hot can go directly onto it for fear of marking it) consider stripping it back to its natural grain and beauty or re-staining it to create a beautiful new statement without a) having to replace the table and b) far more user friendly!

Create your own story board or ideas folder – as you see images and photos you love, whether in a magazine, a book, or when you’re out and about, take photos, get samples, and make notes. Depending upon the size of the project, the more involved it is, the more ideas you will probably collect. You will see a pattern emerging, and this will help you thread your story together.

Finally, mix and match what you have, don’t be afraid to experiment, it’s your home, you have to live in it. You don’t want your home to be ‘on display’. You want it to look inviting, feel good and be a happy and enjoyable space to live in.

Claire’s blog: Haven Home – www.haveninteriors.blogspot.com

Everything you need for your bedroom at 20% less

2010-02-23T15:00:00.000-08:00

Update your bedroom with a fresh new look at 20% less. Until Friday, we're taking 20% off our entire bedroom collection. Choose from waffle blankets, linen cushions, Portugese duvets and our own Five star luxury sheet sets. Used by the Ritz Carlton hotel (sshh!), we're sure you'll find them unbeatable quality.

Enter coupon code 'SHOP' at checkout to receive discount. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Sale ends midnight Friday 26 February.

How to create the perfect bedroom

2010-02-15T16:03:00.000-08:00

At Whiteport, we're always getting asked what's the secret to putting a room together successfully. To help you easily re-create the looks you see in the interior & home magazines, we're launching the first in our Foolproof Decorating series. Each time, we'll show you a different room along with information on where to find the pieces and homewares it contains. Not all of the items you see will be available from Whiteport, but we'll make sure we tell you where you can find everything to save you time, money and stress. Let us do the hard work for you.

The room we get asked most about is the bedroom so we thought it fitting to start here. Our first bedroom belongs to Whiteport founder, Jennifer McCabe. Using an all-white canvas, by simply changing the bed linen with the seasons, you get a whole new look without breaking the bank or getting out the dreaded paint brush.

1. Martha Stewart 'Irvington' bed from Coco Republic, 2. Doona cover from Bed, Bath 'n Table, 3. Ektorp ottoman from Ikea, 4. Arstid wall lights from Ikea, 5. Waffle cotton blanket from Whiteport, 6. Hemnes bedside table from Ikea, 7. Havbro rug from Ikea 8. Quilted valance from Whiteport 9. Artist sketches found on eBay

If you've found this helpful, we'd love to hear from you. Likewise, if there are any rooms or themes you'd like us to feature, let us know and we'll make sure we track them down them for you. You might be looking to create a Hamptons style living room or an art deco bathroom. No challenge too tough for us !

Sizzling summer sale

2010-02-01T15:54:00.000-08:00

Hurry into Whiteport during our 3 day summer sale and get 20% off everything. Includes our new arrivals and furniture. Enter coupon 'shop' at checkout. Lots of Valentines Day gift ideas.

Sweet dreams with 20% off all bedding

2010-01-20T14:24:00.000-08:00

Hurry into Whiteport for great savings in our bedding range. Until Friday, we've got 20% off our entire bedroom range. Including bed linen, bedroom accessories and cushions & throws.

Simply enter coupon BED at checkout to receive your discount. Sales must end Friday.

Now's the perfect time to spruce up your bedroom with fresh new bedding and a new look for the new year. Happy shopping !

Get framed !

2010-01-03T14:12:00.001-08:00

Now that the New Year is well and truly with us, not to mention a new decade is beginning, now's a great time to try some new ideas around your home. As you know at Whiteport we love all things white. It's such a magic colour to blend with all others, in fact, to us white is to interior decorating what the little black dress is to fashion. So why not build on this idea and use both colours to dramatic effect on your walls. For instance, how about framing up a collection of your favourite black and white photographs. The trick is to keep all the frames the same colour, say black but the subjects random, and then place them up a boring stairway wall. We guarantee the journey will take you longer as you are tempted to stop and browse on your way up or down !

Speaking of browsing, check out your local markets, garage sales and antique fairs to find old documents like beautifully scripted share certificates, title documents, sheet music, old maps of foreign places, plans and architects drawings. All can look wonderful when formed into a group for display. Another fantastic idea are our new vintage bus scrolls. Inspired by the former cloth bus scrolls, they create a striking display.
A friend of ours uses sheets of colourful postage stamps in a colour she likes, then mounts them with a harmonious border using a colour taken from the stamps and there you have it - an inexpensive, but interesting effect to put on the wall and one you can change whenever you feel like it.

The key things to remember with framing are:

Keep either the contents of the frame in harmony by using a similar theme (eg photographs, pen and ink drawings, favourite greeting cards, animal shots, flowers) with the frames random in size, shape and colour; or alternatively keeping the frames a standard shape, size and colour, but varying the subject matter.
Planning a ' collection ' such as the ones above, if you lay the frames out on the floor to find a grouping which pleases you and suits the wall space, before you start knocking a multitude of holes in to walls and then find its not quite right the right spot...saves huge domestics with partners who then bleat on about re-plastering and repainting walls ! Again in all things harmony is the key.

We all have our collections of "things" which often lie in drawers or cupboards gathering dust, but which have sentimental value and are not to be thrown out, ever. One of my personal collections are of Metro tickets for the French underground trains onto which I drew little French scenes of things I saw whilst living there. The Eiffel Tower, the colourful umbrellas outside cafes, smart looking females wearing perilously high heels whilst walking their dogs in the Boulevard St.Michel, framed all together these mementos of a foreign experience bring it all back .... I can almost taste the tarte au citron.

Inspiration for decorating with white

2009-12-23T19:58:00.000-08:00

At Whiteport we're always on the look out for new inspiration and ideas for decorating with white to share with you. Over the years, we've come across lots of great books, blogs and resources that have inspired us. Here we share our top 4 favourite books. We hope you'll find them as inspirational as we do.

White on white by Stephanie Hoppen is a firm favourite and shows you how to create elegant rooms with shades of white. As Stephanie points out, white is the colour for all seasons and it never goes out of style. We love her chapter on white christmas, particularly relevant at this time of year. Stephanie shows how versatile decorating with white can be and features a wide range of styles from classic country to urban minimalist. A great resource filled with unique styling and decorating ideas.
Another Whiteport favourite is At Home With White by Atlanta Bartlett, also known as the bible on all things white. White can work in every home. Classic, timeless, easily adapted to changing fashions, and excellent for maximizing light, Atlanta shows us it is far from bland or boring. Learn how to use white to create a multitude of environments-from warm and homey through to cool and calm-with different textures and shades.

Whether you're trying to create an interior that is timeless, elegant, and serene or sharp, contemporary, and clean, white is one of the classic tones of interior design. Design journalist Caroline Clifton-Mogg, in The White Home, shows us how to combine white's many shades—from ivory and milk white to oyster, chalk, and ecru—to create a multi-layered effect that is full of tonal contrast and variation. Taking you room by room, this book shows how to create the perfect sanctuary, offering plenty of original ideas for furniture, curtains, bed dressings, and table settings.

The most used color in interior design, white can open up a space, add dimension, and invoke a sense of romance, elegance, peace, and possibility. White Rooms is devoted entirely to decorating with this versatile color, offering inspiration and options for every room in the house—from bedrooms to bathrooms to living and eating areas and beyond. Featuring houses from around the world, it offers advice on all aspects of decorating with white and its various shades, including furniture, structural elements, objects d'art, wall coloring, and more.

Vintage bus blinds now instore

2009-12-11T11:53:00.001-08:00

Just in time for Christmas, we're proud to launch these stunning vintage bus scrolls.

Inspired by the former cloth destination blinds, each artwork is meticulously screen printed by hand, allowing the timeless quality of the originals to be preserved. Only premium quality materials are used including unbleached 100% cotton artist canvases and eco-friendly water based inks.

Proudly designed and handmade in Australia. Fixings are attached ready for hanging. There are 19 designs to choose from, see drop down menu for all designs available. Fixed shipping cost Australia wide $110.00.

Create a stunning display in your home that's sure to be a talking point.

3 day Christmas sale now on

2009-12-01T14:34:00.001-08:00

Hurry in for great savings during our 3 day Christmas sale. Get 20% off storewide, including our already reduced sale items. No exceptions. Lots of gorgeous gift ideas for Christmas. We've got something for everyone. Search by gift suggestions for the cook, the entertainer and the decorator. Sale ends Friday. Simply enter coupon Xmas1 at checkout.

Get organised for Christmas

2009-11-11T19:23:00.000-08:00

Well we've just experienced one silly season - Melbourne Cup week - and all those hat and fashion boo-boos are now moving into another. Christmas is just weeks away and our thoughts turn frantically to all those people for whom we want to buy gifts. The only problem is what to buy? A perennial problem but one that can be made so much easier by smart shopping. At Whiteport we offer a wide range of items which make very welcome gifts. No gift giving boo-boos here. For example, take a look at our storage solutions and be ready for all those extra gifts you will need to store after Christmas.

One of our official quality control experts recently tried out a new addition to our range - the versatile Katama range of cube storage boxes. See how they stored Miss Maddies soft toy collection!
Though when a girl has as many in her collection as Maddie, you just have to find other, bigger solutions ...
These soft, flexible but suprisingly strong baskets are suitable for any spot in the home - wedge them into bookshelves to hold all those office items that clutter up your desktop, fit them under cupboards in your bathroom and fill with your make-up wipes, cotton balls and his razor blades and extra toothbrushes. Or fill them with gorgeous smelling soaps and leave them neatly arranged on shelves. In the dressing area, they come into their own to store awkward belts, scarves and other accessories that always end up in a jumble. Kids rooms too are great spaces to use this Katama range of baskets in their various sizes. Books, pencils, notebooks in fact anything you normally have to pick up from the floor can be neatly stored away for when they are needed. A great way to get the kids used to having a tidy room. Organisation is the key - what did our mothers tell us "a place for everything and everything in its place", it still holds true today when our busy lives make being organised so important.

Whilst on the subject of baskets, don't forget to look at our Brewster rattan range of neat storage items. What Dad wouldn't like a Brewster bottle caddy, filled with 6 of his favourite tipples for Christmas? A great way to present his gift and after he can use it to carry the liquid refreshments to all those summer barbecues with friends in complete safety and style. Far better than juggling the the cold ones stuffed under his armpits! What about Mum? Fill her Brewster jam carry with four exotic jams or honeys, or even better make your own jams and preserves, dress the jars with pretty frill caps and voila - a really personalised gift that is sure to delight and look good on the breakfast table for years to come.

Best of all any of these items can be gift wrapped in Whiteport's signature style, which is sure to please even the most discerning recipient. So no boo-boo gifts this Christmas. Won't you be popular and it was, after all, all so easy, just trust Whiteport. Happy browsing.

Whiteport has weddings all wrapped up

2009-10-25T20:13:00.000-07:00

Weddings. A word that can strike the greatest joy or the greatest dread into a human heart. Countless decisions need to be made at every turn: the date, the venue, the dress, the flowers, the guest list, the cake, the cars, and of course the gifts. All these elements and many more need to be crafted into that perfect day.

From the moment he or she popped the question there was set into motion a whole lava flow of decisions all equally important and time consuming for today’s busy couples. Of course, you are not alone in shaping the flow, there is always that favourite aunt who remembers way back when the wedding cake had to be made from powdered egg and offers to do the same for you. Or, the bride’s uncle who offers to be the MC for the day and who would, if on the day he stayed away from the aperitif tray, be great, but … perhaps not the powdered egg problem, but certainly there are eggshells to be walked on with great care.

I guess you have the picture in your head but, all is not lost, there is help out there in the form of lots of support. Today there are Wedding Advisors, Co-ordinators, Organisers for just about everything, all highly skilled and anxious to take the load off your shoulders.

At Whiteport, we aim to do our part too and are pleased to announce the introduction of our online Wedding Registry to help lift the burden of finding that special gift for the happy couple. As Jennifer McCabe, founder of Whiteport says “our aim for the wedding registry is to minimize the stress often associated with finding that perfect wedding gift and to ensure that the bride and groom do not end up with unwanted and often unloved gifts”. Hooray! There’s help out there to enable relatives and friends to choose from an inspiring range of homewares and accessories, then have them tastefully gift wrapped and delivered right to the door in good time before the big day.

Yes choosing that special gift can be done in the comfort of your own home, with you remaining calm and unhassled. Though if the wedding was to be in South Korea and the ceremony held at the Rev. Sun Myung Moon’s Unification Church in Asan, south of Seoul, then even we at Whiteport could begin to panic if every bride signed up for our registry and we had to gift wrap over 2,000 gifts! So mindful that we are not catering for the Moonies, there is in fact, nothing left for you to do, but slip on the fancy outfit, pack an extra hanky or two, rehearse that speech and open the bubbly. Just kick back and enjoy the day.

Don’t forget the family pet though, on this special day – they have been with you through thick and sometimes thin and deserve a place in the party. Ask your florist to make up a collar of fresh flowers for Fido eh voila! Fido the Flowerdog. Just ensure he or she has the correct social skills for the day and whilst you quoff the champagne have a bowl of cool water for ready for Fido.

Pamper yourself for less with 20% off

2009-10-13T23:21:00.001-07:00

For 3 days only enjoy 20% off our entire bathroom range. Exclusively for Whiteport subscribers only. Choose from bath & body products, towels & bathmats, storage & wash bags as well as everything in our essential white waffle range.

Sale is strictly for 3 days only, and ends 5pm Friday 16th October. Simply enter coupon ID 'Bath' at checkout to receive your discount. Valid for online orders only.

Happy shopping !

Accessorise for less with 20% off - 2 days only

2009-09-29T16:00:00.000-07:00

Visit Whiteport today and get 20% off everything in our Accessories range. Exclusively for Whiteport subscribers only. Plan ahead for Christmas and choose from photo frames & albums, storage solutions, home scents as well as everything in our beach house range.

Sale is strictly for 2 days only, and ends midnight Thursday 1st October. Simply enter coupon ID 'ACCESS' at checkout to receive your 20% discount.

There's more to white than meets the eye

2009-09-27T16:15:00.000-07:00

Spring is well underway and with its arrival a calendar of fantastic events – from the Spring Racing Carnivals with their flashing jockey silk colours, elegantly dressed and hatted women and sense of fun and excitement.

If that’s all too much excitement how about the quieter, more contemplative exhibitions that slow the pace and invite you just to take a pause and reflect on what the artist is trying to convey. A must see if you are lucky enough to live in the land of the long white cloud, is running at the Christchurch Art Gallery entitled “White on White”. Now those of you who know us at Whiteport know that white is a specialty colour for us in all things for the home. So too, is seems for famous artists like Eileen Mayo, Ando Hiroshige and many more. It may seem at first glance that such an exhibition would be a form of sensory deprivation, but as journeys to Antarctica have shown, white on white is far from dull and monotonous – indeed it is brimming with the imaginative possibilities of the colour. “White on White” runs until 15/11/09, Christchurch Art Gallery.

Making the white choice for decorating your home doesn’t mean you can’t splash out on one or two bold elements in a room, whites and pastels mixed with strong colour allows each detail to relate to another in harmony. At “Coin Perdu” in the Correze region of France, a good friend is renovating a very old farmhouse. Living in the old barn whilst this labour of love, mixed with lots of sweat, effort and dirt takes place. Yet even in the barn a place of cavernous spaces, white comes into its own. See how innovative Ronell is in using the colour white in the most unusual of spaces.

Okay so you don’t own a barn in France, but you do have a home you like and large or small, its good to know that your white scheme will continue to be a winner for years to come. According to US colour expert and trend forecaster, Mark Woodman in Melbourne for Decoration and Design says "in 2010 white will continue to be fashionable and will be a catalyst for working with brighter colours such as daffodil yellow, juicy citrus oranges and crisp, nautical blues. Grey is steadily replacing reigning brown; from cool misted-sky greys to deep charcoals, it’s warm and soothing and plays well with other colours ". As seen in Australian Home Beautiful magazine, August 2009.

All very well you say, how will that ‘play’ with my budget ? At Whiteport we saw the palette of greys emerging, so we added bedlinen trimmed with grey, silk cushions in glorious dove greys and Hollyridge cotton throws too. None of which will break the budget, but they do add that certain touch to update a scheme.

Spring is also the most popular time for weddings here in Australia and brides to be are labouring with huge “To Do” lists to be sure not to forget one single detail necessary for creating their perfect day. Whiteport is pleased to be able to lighten that burden by announcing their new Wedding Registry service. More on this new service next blog, but it will give some of you an occasion to use that silly hat you wore at the races !

Re-invent your bedroom for Spring with a very special 20% off

2009-09-14T15:43:00.001-07:00

With Spring here, now is the perfect time to update your bedroom. Exclusively for Whiteport subscribers only. We've got everything you need to restyle your bedroom for the best nights sleep ever. Choose from bed linen, cushions & throws and bedroom accessories.

Sale starts today and is strictly for 3 days only (ends midnight Thursday 17 September). Simply enter coupon 'BED' at checkout to receive your 20% discount.

Happy shopping !

Whiteport goes Green

2009-09-03T23:34:00.000-07:00

What is it about the season of Spring that so refreshes and enlivens our spirits? Makes us want a 'fresh' start, adopt a start-over attitude, everything seems possible somehow and all because there is something in the air that heightens our senses to that which is about to begin ...

Here at Whiteport our thoughts have turned to those products which seem to fit with trying to do things better; building a more responsible company with better products, prices and service. Did you know for example that, according to a CSIRO expert, it is estimated the average family of three throws out a half a million plastic bags over their lifetime. A staggering statistic - yet think about it. How many plastic bags do you bring home from the fruit market, the supermarket, the hardware shop, the garden centre, etc, etc ? I counted today and after visiting my local fruit market, I had twelve I needed to try and recycle. Simple answer - say "No" to all those unnecessary bags. Go green and carry a shopping bag that comes from a renewable resource, like our Envirosax linen shopper. Made from organic linen, it's three times stronger than cotton, super strong, practical yet smart - you won't feel like the jolly green giant carrying this one! Have a friend or two who want to create a better planet? Then this is a perfect 'green' gift for them. Maddie keeps teddies in hers!

Who of those amongst us doesn't like the atmosphere a beautiful candle or three creates? There is magic in candlelight, they transform and create ambience but again we need to be responsible and care for the atmosphere. Whiteport have an artisan made, Soy candle, which unlike paraffin wax, releases no harmful toxins into the air. They burn for up to 40 hours, are safer, burn cooler, and release a gentle fragrance of either Orange Blossom, Coconut & Lime or White Linen. Just the thing to indulge the senses when next you take a relaxing bath ... of course a glass of good bubbly would help too! Go on you deserve it ... not you Maddie, you stick with the milk.

We also love the products of Australian designer, Christopher Deville who gave us Polpis waffle teatowels. These 100% pure cotton towels are both biodegradable and chemical free. They are also so smart that they wouldn't go amiss as guest towels in your bathroom - folded atop your favourite bath towel they'd look great and are so easy to wash, with of course your eco friendly washing powder or liquid. On the subject of being eco-friendly, try this. Place a small, washed sea-shell inside your kettle, it helps to minimize the build up of the furry stuff that adheres to the inside and coats the element. The lime scale attaches to the shell instead. How eco friendly is that? Thanks Ronell for that tip all the way from South Africa.

Whilst we are thinking 'green', why not make something new from something old? Recycle a plastic bottle, like a bleach container, or a fabric softener bottle to make useful, practical items for around your home. Make a great scoop for that cat litter, or for delving into those big bags of dog biscuits, or even that sack of potting mix. It's so easy. Choose a tall bottle with a high set handle and leave the screw cap on. Wash thoroughly, then soak in warm water for about twenty minutes to soften the plastic. Dry well and then take a texta pen and draw a diagonal line from just below the bottom of the handle and extending nearly to the base opposite the handle. Use a sharp Stanley knife to cut the line, holding the bottle steady with one hand on a hard surface. Wear an old garden glove to be safe when doing this. Push the knife through the softened plastic cutting away from yourself, be careful to keep a firm grip as the plastic may resist the knife and slip away from you. Once you have finished the cutting, lightly sand the edges of the plastic until they are smooth eh voila - your scoop is ready for use.

Feeling good? You should, at least you're thinking about how you can help our planet. Make a mug of your favourite brew, sit back and muse on what Spring has in store for you ... make it good ... like those tender, green shoots about to emerge take a risk ... it's all wonderfully about to begin.

Whiteport on sale

2009-08-30T22:17:00.000-07:00

Hurry in for great savings with our 3 day sale. There's 20% off everything, including items already reduced as well as our new arrivals.

Simply enter coupon code Sale1 at checkout to redeem your discount.

Click the sale image above to start shopping now. Sale ends midnight Thursday 3 September.

Happy shopping !

Whiteport's newest arrival

2009-08-20T20:34:00.000-07:00

At Whiteport we pride ourselves on bringing our valued customers new and fresh ideas to enhance their homes. Well, this is one you cannot shop online for. Announcing Whiteport's newest arrival! Our Whiteport family has expanded and welcomes its newest team member, Madeleine Rose aged 12 weeks. Her role, will evolve with time, but for now it's eating, sleeping and doing what comes naturally. However, she's been busy giving voice to her bathtime routine, using accessories from, of course, the Whiteport range.
It's a hands-on approach from Maddie. See how involved she gets in our quality control process. Today, its our range of French soaps she's testing. Recommended by Pediatricians for even the most sensitive skins, our Soap Fabric a L'Ancienne is perfect for her and us older ones too. She's smiling, so the result must be good.
Incidentally, she could have been trying our Marseille cube soaps with their natural content - they are particularly good for a "bottoms-to-top" approach to baby, bathing by simply using wet hands lightly rubbed with soap over both body and head. Its gentleness ensures a happy baby and a great result. In France where this soap is a family staple, women keep a cube in the kitchen, bathroom and even the laundry, where it's perfect for hand washing those special, delicate items babies wears next to their skins.A good tip when using these natural, good quality soaps is to always place them to air dry on a soap holder that drains. They will keep better, stay fresher and last far longer. No gooey messes either.

After a luxurious and fun bath, what could be nicer than Maddie test drives a super soft, super absorbant, Baksana bamboo towel. Perfect for snuggling into and getting dry. She looks so cute that Mum reaches for the camera to record the moment, they pass so fast don't they? Soon she'll be borrowing the keys for the car!
Take the photo and store these precious snaps and there will be thousands, in a stylish and portable photo album like Whiteport's Chatham range. Something to bring out of that ever growing tote bag you have to carry around now and show the girls and doting grandparents, the next time you get together for a coffee and chat. It's allowed at least for now....go brag !!

Living with white

2009-08-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

So you love the look of an all white room or home, but in reality, what is it like to live with? Is it difficult to keep clean? Can you really mix kids with white interiors? We thought we'd give you an insight into a real life home, that of Whiteport founder, Jennifer McCabe, to see if she practices what she preaches.

Set on Sydney's northern beaches, Jennifer's home is a charming 1918 beach house set between the ocean and Pittwater. The house oozes character and charm. Painted white floorboards, woven cane sofas and wood burning fireplaces create a cozy, elegant and timeless feel. "A white colour scheme is all-encompassing and can work equally well with modern or more traditional homes" says Jennifer.

The master bedroom is a good example of how to successfully decorate with white. By painting the walls and ceilings white and adding white roman blinds, she's created the perfect blank canvas. "I prefer to introduce colour or pattern in my soft furnishings and accessories. For example, I love the soft turquoise and pink tones in our bedding and it looks crisp and fresh against the all white background", Jennifer says. "It's then easier and cheaper to change the look of the room as the seasons change. A new bedspread and some cushions give the room a whole new look, without breaking the bank" she adds.

The main bathroom, complete with claw foot bath, is another good example. Painted tongue-and-groove walls and white waffle cotton accessories give the room a clean and fresh feel. "People think white is hard to keep clean but it's not. No other colour can create a clean and crisp look like white can". There are lots of things you can do to keep your white decor looking good. Invest in removable and washable covers for sofas and chairs, use wash and wear paint on walls and use napisan when washing your sheets to keep them looking like new.

Some other points to remember when decorating with white; add different textures and layers to avoid an all-white scheme appearing clinical. In the bedroom, use blankets and textured throws. Use varying shades of white in your decor to avoid it looking flat. Cream, ivory, parchment and off white all mix perfectly with white. Don't believe us? You only have to look at a paint chart to see how many shades of white there are and you can mix and match any of them to create your own white work of art.

What's new instore at Whiteport

2009-04-27T17:28:00.000-07:00

Is all this talk of recession and tough times getting you down? Then now's the perfect time to visit Whiteport and see what's new instore to cheer you up. Nothing beats a little retail therapy to brighten your day and you don't have to spend alot either. We've got lots of gorgeous items under $30. Whether you're looking for a gift or just a gift to yourself, we've got loads of inspiration instore now.

Choose from our stylish Megansett cutlery sets, perfect for entertaining and the beige & white polka dot handles will team perfectly with crisp white table linen. Have you been putting off organising your loose photographs lying around the house? Then check out our new Chatham photo albums, a stylish and practical way to store your treasured memories.

Is it time to spruce up your bedroom but you're not sure how? A new bedspread or quilt is the quickest way to make a big impression. Our Osterville bedspreads can be used all year round and the stylish grey and white design will work with almost any colour scheme. Team them with our gorgeous Tiah silk blend cushion covers for a soft, romantic look.

And if you're still struggling for inspiration, then you can't go past our ever-popular Hamptons butler's trays. Now available in new Sand colour, they make the perfect bedside table, ideal for holding books and your alarm clock. But they're so versatile, don't just limit them to the bedroom as they make a great occasional table too.

Happy shopping from the Whiteport team.

The white idea

2009-03-24T18:12:00.000-07:00

Up until now, we've mainly published posts about decorating with white, the Whiteport way. This week, we thought we'd give you some other perspectives and ideas on decorating with white to show you just how versatile and easy it can be.

We've chosen just a few images we hope will inspire you and demonstrate how easily you can decorate with white. We love the Better Homes and Garden American website which has oodles and oodles of decorating ideas.

In this bedroom designed by Vicente Wolf, you can see just how well his chosen white pieces work. You'll notice not everything in the room is white but a predominantly white background or canvas allows you to show off some signature pieces, such as the bedhead and bedside table.

Likewise, this sitting room works beautifully and yet not everything in it is white. The warmer tones in the floorboards makes the white pieces stand out. This setting also demonstrates how you can mix shades of white together. Don't think that every white has to match. You'll achieve a softer and more interesting look if you mix different shades of white and cream.

Never be fooled into thinking an all white colour scheme is boring or limited to a certain style. White is the most universally preferred colour for decorating predominantly because of its adaptability. It suits any style be it beach house, shabby chic, ultra modern or farmhouse country.

Images courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens (US) and Vicente Wolf.

Little luxuries

2009-03-12T15:21:00.000-07:00

Who says you can't have a little luxury every day? It doesn't have to be expensive or take up lots of time. With a little imagination, you can spoil yourself every day and feel all the better for it.

The easiest place to start is in the bathroom. Like most people, you're probably always in a hurry getting ready for work to ever really enjoy the time you spend here. It's not just about showering and shaving. By introducing a few luxurious items you can make getting ready a truly enjoyable experience.

Start by throwing out those supermarket soaps and body washes and invest in some luxurious and pure products instead. Not only are they kinder to your skin, but you usually find you need less so they actually last longer proving better value for money. We love the French savon de Marseille range. Our fabrique a L'Ancienne soap has been chosen because of its purity and natural ingredients. Highly recommended by paediatricians for the care of babies' skins and dermatologists to treat adult skin problems. They contain only natural products and therefore no chemicals to harm the skin.

Likewise, our authentic Marseille cube soaps are world renowned for their high standard of purity. Containing pure ingredients and the legendary fragrances found nowhere else but in the Provencal countryside. They are free of chemicals and synthetic additives that can cause allergies and contain no animal fats. They contain only the purest of natural ingredients, with a minimum of 72% pure soap content from olive and vegetable oils, alkaline soda ash from marine plants and sea salt water from the Mediterranean Sea.

Who doesn't feel squeaky clean after they've exfoliated? We've tried lots of exfoliators and body scrubs on the market, but can't go past Asquith & Somerset's salt scrub. An invigorating and cleansing treatment that leaves the whole body soft, smooth and radiant. And the best part, it keeps working afterwards. You're left with a silky smooth barrier of protection that continues to nourish your skin throughout the day.

Of course moisturising your skin after showering is just as important as the products you use to cleanse your skin. The Savonnerie de Bormes body milk from the Provence region in France is made using ingredients from flowers and plants to moisturise, soften, soothe and protect the skin. For more sensitive skins, we recommend the Savon de Marseilles body milk. Made in France, this body milk has moisturising agents combined with vegetable oils to soften and nourish the skin. Fragrance free, it is particularly good for sensitive skin types.

Last, but by no means least, don't forget to upgrade your old bath towels. There is nothing better than wrapping yourself in a gorgeously soft and fluffy bath towel. Our Mayflower bamboo towels are unbeatable for natural softness, with a beautiful silky lustre. Four times more absorbent than 100% cotton towels, their natural anti-bacterial properties means they are suitable for even the most sensitive skin.

So you see it's not difficult to introduce a little luxury to your day and we believe once you've tried it, there's no going back.

New inspiration for your home at Whiteport

2009-02-19T11:51:00.000-08:00

To inspire you this month, we've added lots of exciting new items to the Whiteport online store. Remember, the beauty of decorating with white is it's timeless, simple and complements any colour scheme. But you don't have to have an all white scheme to be able to achieve the look. Just introduce a few pieces to update your look. White always looks fresh and clean and can make a huge impact without breaking the bank.

For the bedroom, we have the lovely Osterville quilted bedspreads, as currently featured in Australian Home Beautiful magazine. Based on a french design, they are perfect to use all year round, either as a bedspread or folded along the foot of your bed. Team it with our new gorgeous silk blend Tiah cushions. Available in 3 colourways, they will add a soft and delicate touch to your bedroom.

Add some style to your household chores with our stunning new Dragonfly range of home products. Choose from matching linen teatowels, bag holder and ironing board cover all made here in Australia. The Dragonfly motif is as popular as ever and these make great gift ideas.

Is it time to update your bath towels? Check out our new Hamptons range. Designed in New Zealand, the classic ribbed design will suit any bathroom and of course nothing beats the look and feel of fluffy white bath towels.

These are just a few of the new items instore now at Whiteport. Click here to view the entire range. We hope they will inspire you to decorate with white.

7 Secrets of Successful Decorating

2009-02-05T16:33:00.000-08:00

Decorating doesn't have to be difficult. Infact, it should be easy and fun. At Whiteport we believe everything we sell should improve your way of living. Whether it be luxurious bath towels or smart yet practical storage baskets, our mission is to inspire a Whiteport lifestyle in every home. We've put together the following pointers that we hope will help demystify interior decorating.

1. Establishing a neutral palette and accenting it with bold dashes of colour allows flexibility in decorating. It's cheaper and easier to change the cushions on a neutral sofa than to change or re-upholster the sofa.

2. Use furniture that has good lines and bold shapes; add unique pieces and heirlooms to add your own style and personality. Look for bargain pieces at online auction houses and second hand stores that can be given a new lease on life. Remember classic pieces won't date.

3. Don't overlook the importance of good lighting. Lighting creates ambience and makes a space welcoming. Utilise ceiling lights as well as lamps to give you the flexibility to choose the best lighting for a situation. Brilliant white bulbs are best for ceiling lights whilst softer frosted bulbs work well in lamps.

4. In large areas which are multi-purpose, divide the spaces by the use of rugs and arrangement of your furniture. For instance, a long dining table can separate the kitchen from the living space.

5. Storage that is attractive and practical is the key to clutter-free living. Choose solutions that complement your belongings. White is a good colour for storage. It works well with natural materials like rattan and wicker and with most colours.

6. Decorating with white and neutral palettes is all about texture. Mixing different textures will ensure your all white colour scheme doesn't look bland or sterile. Also, remember to change textures with the seasons; in the warmer months, use flat crisp materials like cotton and linen and in winter, introduce chunky blankets and rich, luxurious throws.

7. Probably the hardest part of decorating is displaying objects in a room. Unify chosen items for display by colour, material, shape or theme. Groups of three are attractive as are slightly off-centre arrangements.

Decorate for less with 20% off

2009-01-27T15:48:00.000-08:00

Hurry in for great storewide savings at our 1 day sale, tomorrow Thursday 29 January. Sale is exclusively for Whiteport subscribers only. Just enter coupon ID 'sale' at checkout to receive your 20% discount. Offer applies to everything in store - no exclusions.

Don't forget to check out our New Arrivals. We've extended our popular rattan Brewster range with tissue boxes and napkin holders, along with Spot coffee mugs and much more.

There's no better time to spruce up your home. Happy shopping !

The White House

2009-01-15T11:09:00.000-08:00

This month we're proud to be featured in Australian Home Beautiful magazine. Get the inside story on Whiteport including founder, Jennifer McCabe's, stunning white beach house where all of the Whiteport images are shot.

You'll also glean some insights into the world of Whiteport, including how it all started, decorating tips and our exciting plans for the future. See a real life example of how an all-white colour scheme is all-encompassing and can work equally well with modern or more traditional homes.

We hope you enjoy the article and look forward to welcoming you to the Whiteport online store soon. Remember to subscribe to the site to receive our monthly specials, product news and special subscriber-only promotions.

Declutter & better organise your home

2009-01-06T17:13:00.000-08:00

What better New Year's resolution is there than de-cluttering and re-organising your home? At Whiteport, we've got lots of ways to help you achieve this, without breaking the bank and still managing to look stylish.

The main objective when organising your home, no matter which room, is that the system and layout has to work. It's no good just making something look better if it doesn't actually serve you better by saving you time. The aim is to make your life easier so you spend less time looking for things, rumaging through drawers and piles.

Baskets and containers work best for miscellaneous items you'd rather were hidden from general view. For instance, baskets in the hallway can store shoes, umbrellas, dog leashes and keys. In the bathroom, canisters work best to store cotton wipes and balls and other small items leaving only the larger everday items out and to hand. The clearer your benchtops and workspaces, the better they will look. This is exactly what the professional stylists do to achieve those tidy and spacious interiors you see in all the home magazines. Things are still accessible but not necessarily visible creating a streamlined and clutter-free look.

In the kitchen, a Whiteport favourite is to store frequently used utensils in tall white jugs. Use a smaller one for shorter utensils such as mini-whisks and peelers and a larger one for wooden spoons and spatulas. In fact, Martha Stewart probably has the most organised kitchen we've seen and she has a separate white jug for spatulas, one for wooden utensils for a really professional and tidy look. Plus when you're cooking, everything is within handy reach. No more rumaging through that bottomless pit of utensils that is so common in most kitchens.

You can also apply the same rule to your bedroom. Whilst there is probably not as much clutter here than say the kitchen or hallway, you can still use smart and stylish storage solutions to help you achieve that clean and organised look. On the bedside table, use small baskets or leather boxes with lids to hide smaller pieces such as watches, rings and cufflinks. Install some hooks in your wardrobe to hang belts and use jewellery organisers to hand necklaces and bracelets. Again, the aim is to save you time making it easy to find things, but for jewellery in particular, it will actually benefit from hanging by preventing them from becoming tangled.

We hope this post has inspired you to become better organised at home. It's a great way to start the New Year and you'll feel all the better for having done it - trust us, we know !

Whiteport 1st Birthday sale

2008-11-18T17:54:00.001-08:00

It's hard to believe it was only a year ago that Whiteport was formed. To say thank you to all of our much-valued customers for their custom and feedback, we're having a 1-day Birthday sale.

Sale is strictly limited to 1 day only, on Thursday 20 November. There's 20% off everything in store, including our new arrivals. Perfectly timed for Christmas shopping, so tell your friends and family.

To redeem discount, simply enter coupon "Birthday" at checkout.

Happy shopping !
Terms: this offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and is only valid for orders placed on Thursday 20 November 2008.

Enertaining made easy

2008-10-28T20:56:00.000-07:00

Dinner parties are a fun and popular way to entertain friends in your home. They can be elegant, formal affairs set by candlelight, or casual, relaxed barbeques during the warmer months. Whichever you choose, they certainly shouldn’t be stressful. We’ve prepared some tips to ensure you get to enjoy yourself on the day while leaving your guests thinking you are the hostess with the mostess.

Beauty is in the detail
The best ways to impress your guests involves catching them by surprise. Think how you can creatively and simply add little details that are sure to impress.

It might be setting out disposable folded napkins for your guests to use instead of a traditional hand towel in the bathroom or preparing take-home portions of dessert in individual boxes to send home with your guests. Many times people are full from dinner and drinks and forego the dessert that you spent hours making. Sending home a goodie box is a great way to show your guests that you were thinking about them while at the same time making sure that everyone gets to enjoy your delicious dessert.

Using individual place cards is a personal and memorable touch. Be creative and consider using picture frames as the place card itself, inserting the guests name into each one. Or how about individual wire photo holders with each persons name handwritten on a card or simply tucked into the napkin ring. Your local craft store will have a plethora of inexpensive ideas you can use. Remember, it’s the little things that will impress your guests.

It’s all in the preparation
Nothing is worse when you are entertaining than to be stuck in the kitchen all night, unable to spend time with your guests; or, realizing that you have forgotten something that you need to prepare a dish when it is too late to go out and get it.

Take the time the day of, and even the day before, to prepare as much as possible. If you are cooking, prepare all of the dishes ahead of time wherever possible. And, if something cannot be prepared ahead of time, measure and chop all of the ingredients and set them aside for easy preparation when you are ready to cook and serve the dishes. You’ll be amazed at how much time this saves you.

If you’re trying a new recipe, make sure you’ve had a trial run beforehand. It’s always best to stick to dishes you’re confident making to avoid any last minute disasters in the kitchen.

Set your table, including any serving dishes and utensils, the day before. This will make you aware of anything you are missing as well as resulting in one less thing to do on the day. If you’re using flowers, buy them when they are not yet fully flowering. This means you can buy them up to a week prior ensuring they’ll be in full bloom by the time your dinner party comes around.

By following these simple pointers, you’re well on your way to a successful and enjoyable dinner party without all the stress.

Whiteport in the press

2008-10-07T19:25:00.000-07:00

This month we're proud to be featured in Australian Home Beautiful magazine. Not a Whiteport convert yet? Then see what they've got to say and you might be inclined to change your mind.

If you haven't bought from us yet, there's lots of fabulous new items instore now, as well as lots more coming in time for Christmas. So make sure you remember to check out our New Arrivals regularly to take the headache out of your Christmas shopping. You can even have your gifts beautifully wrapped and tied with our signature Whiteport ribbon, ready to put straight under the tree.

We got lots of great gift ideas for the cook, the entertainer, the decorator and the most important person in your life - YOU. Choose from gorgeous white bed linen, divine English soaps and body products, classic white serving dishes and stylish photo frames and albums for your favourite snaps. Of course they're all themed around a stylish white palette, designed to stand the test of time and to suit any home. Remember, there are no limitations when you decorate with white.

All you need to know about bedding

2008-09-28T21:50:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been confused when buying bed linen when it came to the thread count or the type of fabric? If so, you are not alone. Nowadays, sheets come in a variety of colors, styles, fabrics and thread counts making the choice somewhat overwhelming. So, to help simplify things, we've put together a post with everything you need to know about thread counts and fabrics.

Thread Count
One of the first things that shoppers often search for is thread count. Thread count refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads in one square inch of fabric. Generally, the higher the thread count, the more luxurious and softer the sheets will feel. However, don't be deceived into thinking the higher the thread count the better quality the sheet. One thing to keep in mind is that the higher thread count sheets, while luxurious, are thinner and may not wear as well over time. Also, it is important to note that the higher the thread count, the higher the price.

Fabric Types
As a general rule, look for thread counts no less than 180 and remember that natural fabrics let your skin breathe. The most common choices in
fabric types include cotton, cotton blends and linen.

Egyptian cotton - made from fibres that are typically 1 3/8 inches in length and are known around the world for their luxurious softness. The longer the fibres that comprise the cotton fabric, the more durable the grade of cotton.
Cotton sateen - made from a process placing most of the threads on the surface of the fabric, also giving it a smoother feel and a higher durability than many other fabrics. Very soft and smooth against the skin.
Cotton percale - made from high quality combed cotton. Combed cotton produces a finer, more luxurious thread that launders well and is long lasting.
Linen - regarded as the best quality sheets you can buy and renowned for its crispness, coolness and breathability. Extremely long lasting and gets better with age though does require more careful laundering.
Poly/Cotton blend - made from a 50/50 blend of polyester and cotton which launders easily and requires little or no ironing. Always look for a high thread count in this fabric to ensure longevity.

By better understanding the different fabrics and thread counts available, you'll be able to confidently choose the right bedding for you and your family.

Bathroom bliss - bathe, relax & rejuvenate

2008-09-02T22:14:00.000-07:00

While some people get ready for work in the morning without giving a second glance or thought to their bathroom, others fully understand the importance of creating a warm and inviting space for rejuvenation and relaxation. Utilising stylish storage, fine linens, candles, soaps and oils, your bathroom will no longer be just a place to get ready. Follow these simple steps to create an oasis just for you to enjoy.

Stylish storage
Sleek lines and clean surfaces call for one thing: storage. It is pretty easy to end up with clutter in the bathroom, especially when you are hurrying out the door in the morning to get to work. If you are looking to create a more sleek and stylish appearance, use attractive storage units or containers both on the counter and in the cupboards. You'll be able to clean off your bathroom benchtop, while still allowing for practicality of the items that you need to use daily. There are many storage options to choose from so it's a matter of personal taste and how much space you have to work with. Consider using wicker baskets, open containers, stackable containers, or even an assortment of containers for a more relaxed look. Even using something as simple as clear containers, like our Ridgevale stackable cubes seen here, can take clutter and make it attractive and organized in your bathroom.

Linens

If you have never experienced the luxury of high quality bath linens, you are missing out. Linens are frequently used in the bathroom; to wash your face, to step on when you are exiting the bath or shower and to wrap yourself in as you prepare for work. Purchase the best linens that you can afford and begin to experience the difference that high quality feels like on your skin. If you are unsure of which color to choose, we suggest sticking to white. White goes with everything, never goes out of style and creates a fresh and crisp look in any bathroom.

Lotions & potions
One of the most relaxing things to indulge in is a long, hot bath. To make the experience even more enjoyable, spoil yourself with a variety of candles and bath oils. Candles are great; you can find them in virtually any colour, size and shape as well as any scent. Try lining up a row of tealights along a window sill or fill a side table with candles of different heights and shapes to create visual interest. Adding a few drops of essential oils to your bath will ensure you really relax and rejuvenate. We love Royal Doulton's new range of essential oil blends, perfect for washing away the cares of a long hard day. And last but not least, don't forget to smother yourself in your favourite body lotion after your bath, sealing in the moisture and goodness. Your skin will thank you for it.

Blankets and hot water bottles, Oh My!

2008-08-05T23:54:00.000-07:00

Transform your home and get cozy this winter. The quickest way to give any room a lift is with a new blanket or throw. At Whiteport, we’ve chosen classic designs to complement any home, be it a city loft apartment or a sprawling beach house. And by sticking to styles that complement popular white colour schemes, they will add pizazz and interest whether your décor is French country or modern.

Some of the most important staples to have in your home to prepare for winter are blankets and throws. While most of us wait until the weather changes to shop for essential items such as these, it is actually in many cases more economical to shop earlier, in the off seasons.

We’ve added some new blankets and throws to the Whiteport site that will add fashionable interest folded over the foot of your bed or sofa. Be assured that they will enhance your décor. Choose from the ever-popular white waffle blankets, reversible brushed cotton blankets or the supersoft Kingsbury throws. They’re all comfortable, easy to care for and versatile. When the nights are cool, you’ll be so glad to have a lightweight but warm layer to add to your bed, but when you just want to relax on your porch or deck, they make a wonderful, cozy wrap. Plenty big enough to wrap two and keep both of you warm. They offer a stylish but practical solution for your home and can be changed with the seasons. Waffle is a favourite at Whiteport as it can be used all year round and always looks great.

And while you’re at it, look at our new, gorgeous, and unbelievably cute Scargo hot water bottle. A water bottle needs to be cute? Of course it does! I know—it’s a practicality, but it doesn’t have to be an eyesore. Left on your bed when you’re not using it, no one would guess it’s a hot water bottle. Filled with hot water, it will keep you warm and cozy (and asleep!) when the chill moves in or when the fields become white and the cold just seems to seep into your bones. Even if you’re taking a short afternoon nap, you can quickly fill your little friend with hot water and climb under your new blanket that you’ve just purchased from Whiteport and be off to the Land of Nod in no time. Oh, and by the way, nothing soothes a sore back or sore muscles like a good hot water bottle, and this one’s so cute, you’ll smile every time you use it.

Rediscover the charm & romance of candles

2008-07-23T01:11:00.000-07:00

Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or simply love the charm of candlelit dinners, we’ve put together a few tips to help you rediscover the charm of candlelight.

The first step is to select the best type of candle for your needs; paraffin or soy.

Paraffin or Soy?
Paraffin wax candles are the most common type of candle available, yet most of us are not familiar with what they are actually made of or how they differ from other types of candles. Paraffin candles are derived from petroleum, a limited resource on our planet. Paraffin candles burn cleanly, but the wax residue left over can actually be quite troublesome to remove if it gets on your dining table or linens.

An increasingly popular alternative to paraffin wax is soy wax. Soy wax candles are made from soybeans and vegetables, and as a result, release no toxins. Soy wax is environmentally friendly and comes from sustainable and renewable resources. Unlike paraffin candles, soy candles have a low melting point so the wax burns cooler, longer and safer than paraffin allowing the fragrance to be released into the air faster.

Table setting ideas
For as long as we can remember, the most classic candle setting has been white candles teamed with silver candlesticks. Not only is white a classic color for candles and linens, but it is considered by many chefs as the ideal backdrop to display the beauty of food.

For something more modern, consider floating candles. Create a simple table setting using white floating candles, placed in a shallow glass bowl filled with water. You could even place white river stones on the bottom of the bowl. We love this idea as it only takes a few minutes to make and won’t break the bank.

For something more contemporary, you can’t beat a row of glass hurricane lamps down the middle of the table. An odd number always looks better than even so try 3 instead of 2. The glass itself will create a soft, flickering light and because the hurricane lamps are taller than the candles themselves, it means you won’t burn your hands when reaching over them so they’re actually a safer option than small glass tealights. We suggest using the latter along window sills and other out of the way places where they’re less likely to be bumped.

On a budget? Then tealights are the way to go. They look especially fabulous when done en mass. A hall table filled with tealights creates a simple yet stunning entrance for your guests. Or why not line the edge of a path or stairs with them, to create a guiding pathway to your front door.

Candlelight is not only relaxing, but it creates an elegant backdrop for dinner parties, whether they be for two or for twenty. Consider rediscovering the romance and elegance of candles in your home.

And so to bed

2008-07-02T18:47:00.000-07:00

What's the trick to creating a truly sumptuous boudoir? And how do you recreate the lovely bedrooms you see in all of the magazines without breaking the bank? Of all the rooms in your home, the bedroom should be your personal sanctuary. No shade is better suited to bedrooms than white. It is restful, calming and the perfect backdrop for displaying treasured possessions.

Firstly, it's all about keeping a neutral palette. Mixing and matching tones of the same colour means you get better use of your bedlinen. Think white, cream, ecru and oyster shades. Don't waste your money on brightly coloured or patterned bedding that will date. It's guaranteed to stay in the linen cupboard and never see the light of day. Stick to neturals - white is best. It always looks fresh, never dates and complements any colour sheme.
If you buy white sheets and quilt covers you can easily and inexpensively change the look by just buying a new throw or blanket. We've done this at Whiteport with our Cedarville bedding, shown above, using a soft grey Hollyridge blanket to add some colour. The blankets are reversible meaning you get 2 looks for the price of 1.

The other important thing to remember when buying bedlinen is to layer different textures. This creates warmth and interest and prevents an all-white colour scheme from looking cold and clinical. In summer and spring, use romantic quilted bespreads and during the cooler months, cozy knitted blankets and throws.

So be adventurous - layer it, mix it up with contrasting textures, combine shades and mix old with new. Remember, there are no limitations when you decorate with white.

Setting the perfect table

2008-06-07T18:36:00.000-07:00

We've all been there. You've splashed out on a new dinner set, ironed the linen tablecloth and napkins, paid a fortune for a floral arrangement and yet your dining table still just doesn't look like the ones in the home magazines and your guests are due in half an hour. What do you do?

Firstly, de-cluttering is key. Too many items on your dining table make it hard for the eye to decide what to focus on. There needs to be one main focal point with all other pieces complementing, but not competing, with it. Try a low-level flower arrangement in the centre of the table. Keep it under 30cm tall. Anything taller than this will mean your guests won't be able to see one another over it. And it doesn't have to be expensive. Glossy green foliage can look just as striking as a store-bought arrangement. Look in your own garden first before running to the florist.

And if flowers just aren't your thing, then try something else, like candles for instance. Remember an odd number always looks better than even, so try a row of 3 candles in short fat glass hurricane lamps or even terracotta pots with a simple ribbon or raffia tied around them. You could then use the same ribbon/raffia to tie your napkins or cutlery together to bring the whole look together.

Colour is important. More formal and elegant looks are achieved using a one-colour scheme eg all white. Glass and silver mix in superbly with white and other neturals to create a sophisticated yet simple look. This is why buying an all white dinner set, including your platters and serving dishes, makes sense. You can add to your setting with other white pieces, breakages are easily replaced as there's no chance of white ever being discontinued like some patterns.

Using patterns is another easy way to create a new look for your next dinner party or luncheon. Stripes with checks works well if they're all in the same tonal range. Again, keeping your tableware and dishes all the one colour means they work with any colour scheme. Plus it's far cheaper to buy a new tablecloth and napkins than it is to buy a whole new dinner set.

Good luck and if you've got any suggestions you think other bloggers would find useful, post a comment.

Whiteport in the press

2008-05-22T22:24:00.001-07:00

This month we're proud to be featured in Australian Country Style magazine. We're part of the gorgeous Pride of Place photo shoot. See our porcelain s oup ladle and Chatham kitchen canisters online at Whiteport.

And don't forget with the cooler weather already here, it's the perfect time to spruce up your bedroom. Get cozy in no time with soft knitted throws, romantic quilted bedspreads, Egyptian cotton sheets and the ever-classy Boston stripe bed linen.

Here are some tips for decorating with white, and more importantly, getting it right:

It’s all about texture. To avoid an all-white scheme appearing clinical, add different textures and layers in white. For example, layer bed linen using waffle blankets, pretty cotton throws and quilted cushions for a truly sumptuous boudoir.

Remember the basics. When painting, shades of white will make a room appear larger. If you want the room to feel larger still, paint the ceiling and skirtings in a lighter tone of the wall.

Keep it simple. Keep your crockery and serving dishes all white. They’re classic and won’t date, broken pieces are easily replaced and you can also add new pieces knowing they’ll match.

Add interest with glass and other materials. Mix in some glass and silver pieces amongst your white collection to add a touch of elegance.

Good luck and remember - there are no limitations when you decorate with white.

Now's the time to spruce up your bedroom

2008-05-14T21:41:00.000-07:00

With the cooler weather upon us, now's the perfect time to spruce up your bedroom. Whether it's a new quilt cover, sheet set or cozy knit blanket, you're sure to find some great ideas for your bedroom at Whiteport.

For peaceful slumber, shades of white create a soothing, peaceful ambience. Spoil yourself in bed with luxurious Egyptian cotton sheet sets, romantic quilted bedspreads and cozy knit blankets all instore now.

To complement your new bedding, don't forget to add the finishing touch with some new bedroom accessories. Our Plympton white leather boxes are ideal for storing those smaller items and are a stylish addition to any bedside table. And if you're looking for a versatile bedside table, you can't go past our white butler's tray - really cute and great value for money.

Need some help decorating with white? Check out our Top 10 Decorating Tips guaranteed to steer you in the right direction. Good luck and remember, there are no limitations when you decorate with white.

New items instore now at Whiteport

2008-05-09T01:18:00.000-07:00

Have you checked out the new arrivals at Whiteport yet? There's sure to be something to take your fancy. Choose from Asquith & Somerset handcream, stylish Calhoun knit blankets, Bamboo bath towels that really are 4x more absorbent than normal cotton towels and the classic Boston sateen stripe bed linen.

There's also lots of great gifts ideas perfect for that upcoming birthday, wedding or engagement. Spend over $150 and you'll get FREE delivery.

And remember, there are no limitations when you decorate with white.

We look forward to welcoming you soon at Whiteport.

Remember Mum this Mother's Day 9th May

2008-04-27T02:09:00.000-07:00

Don't forget Mum this Mother's Day. With lots of lovely things instore, you're sure to find something just perfect for your Mum.

We've got something for every Mum. Choose from gorgeous leather travel accessories, Royal Doulton premium incense, our soft & eco friendly Bamboo bath towels and stylish silver photo frames.

And for just $4.95 you can have your present gift wrapped with accompanying gift tag, all tied up with our signature Whiteport satin ribbon.

Remember to order by 2nd May for guaranteed delivery* (Australian deliver addresses only).

Welcome to the Whiteport blog

2008-04-15T23:47:00.000-07:00

Finally, the Whiteport blog is here! We hope you enjoy it and most of all, that it inspires you to get decorating with white. To all of our customers who asked us to start a blog, thanks for the feedback and encouragement. We look forward to hearing more of your comments and suggestions.

If you haven't visited the Whiteport online store yet, we look forward to welcoming you soon. Click here to visit us. Whiteport specialises in home furnishings, furniture and accessories all themed around a stylish white palette. Why white? Because there are no limitations when you decorate with white. White products are simple, timeless and complement any colour scheme.

2008 promises to be an exciting year for Whiteport. There are plans underway for a Wedding Registry and Gift Vouchers and each month we'll be running a different promotion. Make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any special offers. We'll also be publishing product reviews so if you've had a good experience with one of our products, we'd love to hear from you.